ESW / EGW: how can an existing PQR support a production WPS?

First confirm the process and the record type

Electroslag welding (ESW), narrow-gap electroslag welding (ESW-NG) and electrogas welding (EGW) use specialized equipment and have their own qualification provisions. Under AWS D1.1/D1.1M:2025 they are not Clause 5 prequalified processes. This review starts only when an applicable, complete PQR and supporting test record already exist. The PQR is compared with the production setup under Table 6.7, with the applicable Table 6.8 checks added when CVN requirements apply.

Identify which process and variant the PQR actually supports; do not treat the term “vertical welding” or a generic process code as enough. The procedure record must preserve the actual machine, shoe, guide, flux, electrode, oscillation and joint details tied to the tested condition.

Specialized production fields to reconcile to the PQR

Table 6.2 has a process-specific base-metal thickness range of 0.5T–1.1T for ESW/EGW; do not borrow the familiar 2T or unlimited entry from an ordinary CJP process row. The ESW/EGW test set is also specialized: two reduced-section tension tests, one all-weld-metal tension test and four side bends, with the applicable visual/NDT provisions. Check the exact PQR and the table notes before carrying any coverage into a production WPS.

Table 6.7 is a change-trigger table, not a parameter recipe

The following is a compact screening map for changes from the recorded PQR. The strict “greater than” thresholds stay strict; a stated qualitative term such as “significant” must not be replaced by an invented percentage. A trigger identifies the table’s listed route; it does not create a result or authorize this service to perform new testing.

AWS D1.1/D1.1M:2025 public preview provides edition context but is not a substitute for the complete controlled Table 6.7. The table’s RT/UT path refers to the code’s specified examination provisions (Clause 8 Parts E/F, and Clause 10 Part F where tubular application governs). It does not mean that all entries require a new WPS mechanical test. Confirm the exact table notes and any governing tubular or contract provisions from the controlled code text.

Keep CVN support as a second overlay

If the contract or code requires CVN, complete the applicable Table 6.8 supplementary-variable review in addition to Table 6.7. The specialist row, test thickness and materials, flux/electrode identities, heat input and other supplementary controls must be supported by the PQR and test reports. Table 6.7 clearance alone does not demonstrate CVN qualification.

If a needed Table 6.7 path is WPS testing or the CVN review shows new qualification tests are required, stop the WPS preparation review at that gap. Cavoren’s existing-PQR service prepares a production WPS only from applicable existing evidence; it does not develop ESW/EGW process settings, conduct RT/UT, or arrange new procedure or CVN testing.

Code basis and related guides

AWS D1.1/D1.1M:2025 base edition plus registered errata, excluding AMD1. Primary provisions include 6.8.2, Table 6.2, Table 6.7 and Table 6.8 when CVN applies; use the exact notes and any applicable Clause 10 provisions from the controlled standard.